On Tuesday, May 17, police executed a search warrant at a Gloria Circle residence, which resulted in the arrest of Mark Richards, 42, of Burlington.

During the search, police seized 18 marijuana plants ranging from six to eight feet tall, several pounds of packaged marijuana ready for distribution, and over $10,000 worth of equipment used to grow marijuana.

Richards is charged with:

• Drug Possession with Intent to Distribute a Class D Substance

• Drug Possession of a Class B Substance

Police estimate the street value of the seized marijuana to be in excess of $25,000. Assorted pills were also located and seized.

The Burlington Police Drug Unit was assisted by detectives and the K-9 unit when searching the home.

"This was not an individual person growing marijuana for personal use. This investigation was launched to shut down the operation of a drug dealer, plain and simple," Chief Kent said. "I would like to commend our officers and detectives for their efforts to bring this case to a successful conclusion."